The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Roof Box for Your Adventure

When selecting a roof box based on the size of your vehicle and the cargo, the decision typically revolves around the box’s size and shape, both of which depend on the type of trip you are planning, the items you need to carry, and the type of vehicle you own.

1. Vehicle Size

• Small Cars: If you drive a smaller car, a compact roof box (also referred to as a narrow or medium-width box) is often recommended to avoid overhang and stability issues. These boxes are typically more streamlined and suitable for shorter trips or carrying items like camping gear or a couple of suitcases.
• Larger Vehicles (SUVs, Vans): With larger vehicles, you can opt for wider or longer roof boxes without the concern of the box overwhelming the vehicle’s roof. A long full-width box is ideal for these vehicles, especially if you are carrying items like skis, snowboards, or bulky camping equipment.

2. Cargo Considerations

• Family Holidays: For family trips, where you might need extra luggage space for multiple people, longer boxes that offer greater volume and length are preferable. These long boxes, typically over 2 meters, are spacious enough to store suitcases, tents, or other bulky items.
• Carrying Long Items: If you need to transport longer items like skis, snowboards, or fishing rods, a longer roof box (over 180 cm) is ideal. These long boxes may extend over the windshield, but most customers don’t notice this once they are on the road.
• Mixed Uses (Bikes + Roof Box): If you need the flexibility to carry additional equipment, like bikes or water sports gear, a narrow or medium-width box is a better choice. These types of boxes allow enough space on the roof bars for a bike carrier or kayak holder alongside the box.

3. Shape and Aerodynamics

Roof boxes come in different shapes, and aerodynamics plays a role in both fuel efficiency and reducing wind noise. Streamlined designs are especially important for long drives at higher speeds. A more aerodynamic box might be slightly more expensive but can save on fuel consumption and provide a quieter ride.

Summary of Roof Box Selection Tips

• Narrow/Medium-Width Boxes are ideal for mixed use and flexibility, such as carrying both bikes and luggage.
• Long Boxes work well for large families or when transporting long items like skis.
• Consider Aerodynamics for fuel efficiency, especially for longer journeys.

In general, the decision comes down to how much space you need for your trip and what other equipment you may need to carry alongside the roof box.

Price vs. Features: Balancing Budget and Key Features

When selecting a roof box, finding the right balance between budget and features is crucial for getting the most value. Here are the key considerations:

• Budget Options:
If your main concern is affordability, there are plenty of budget-friendly roof boxes available. However, it’s important to note that cheaper models often compromise on build quality, durability, and features. Basic models may offer simple locking mechanisms and single-side opening, which could limit ease of use. These options work well for occasional trips or lighter loads but may not last as long or provide the same convenience as higher-end models.
• Premium Features:
If you can afford a higher budget, investing in a premium roof box can bring a lot of advantages. Here are some features to consider:
• Dual-Side Opening: More expensive roof boxes often come with dual-side opening, allowing access from either side of the vehicle. This makes loading and unloading much easier, especially in tight spaces or on busy roads.
• Secure Locking Systems: Premium roof boxes come with advanced locking mechanisms, ensuring your belongings are safer and more secure. Look for features like central locking systems or multiple locking points that provide peace of mind, especially for longer trips.
• Aerodynamics: Roof boxes with aerodynamic designs reduce wind resistance, improving fuel efficiency and reducing noise on the road. These streamlined models tend to be more expensive but offer better performance over long distances.
• Build Quality: High-end boxes are often made from durable, UV-resistant materials that can withstand extreme weather conditions, ensuring longevity and better protection for your items.

Hiring vs. Buying: Pros and Cons

Choosing between hiring and buying a roof box depends on how frequently you’ll use it and your budget.

Hiring:
• Cost-Effectiveness: Hiring a roof box is ideal for occasional users. If you only need extra storage for an annual road trip or holiday, hiring is much cheaper than buying a new roof box. You don’t need to worry about long-term storage or maintenance.
• No Maintenance: When you hire, there’s no need to worry about wear and tear. The rental company handles cleaning and maintaining the roof box.
• Variety of Options: Hiring gives you flexibility in choosing the right size or type of roof box for a specific trip, allowing you to change models based on your current needs.
Cons of Hiring:
• Availability: Popular roof box models and colours may not always be available during peak travel seasons, so planning ahead is essential.
• Cost Over Time: For frequent use, hiring can become more expensive than buying in the long run. If you need a roof box several times a year, the cumulative rental fees might surpass the cost of purchasing one.
Buying:
• Long-Term Investment: If you plan to use a roof box multiple times per year, buying is usually the more cost-effective option. Over time, you’ll save money by avoiding rental fees.
• Convenience: Owning a roof box means you have it available whenever you need it, without worrying about availability or reservation deadlines.
• Customization: When you own a roof box, you can invest in the exact model that suits your long-term needs, from size to features like dual-side opening or extra security measures.
Cons of Buying:
• Initial Cost: The upfront investment can be significant, especially for high-end models.
• Storage and Maintenance: After each use, you’ll need space to store the roof box and ensure it is properly maintained to prevent damage from long-term exposure to weather or mishandling.

In summary, if you only need a roof box for a one-off trip, hiring may be the most affordable and practical option. For frequent travellers, investing in a high-quality roof box will likely pay off in the long run.

If this blog has been helpful to you, visit the below links to take you to the right place and take a look at the available options for both hiring and buying options!

Click HERE to see the rental options.

Click HERE to see the buying options.